Michael McQuaid resides on the island of Ireland and is the host of the Irish Steelers podcast.
The NFL offseason hits differently when you are an Irish or European fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
On Saint Patrick's Day, it's an important reminder of the incredible connection that Steelers fans throughout the island have with the team - one that the vast majority (if any) of the other NFL franchises have with any area around the world.
This year feels a little different. It's the first Saint Patrick's Day since the landmark NFL Dublin Game, a day that will live in history for thousands of fans that walked down Jones' Road in late September last year.
I was lucky enough to stand around the inner perimeter of the Steelers locker room when the game went final.
Everything had gone to plan. The Steelers had come to town for their first game on Croker's hallowed turf and were about to leave with a win.
Cam Heyward was standing outside the locker room, all smiles.
The long-held wish of late Chairman and Ambassador to Ireland, Dan Rooney, had been fulfilled.
What is almost lost now in the memory of this historic game as we celebrate our day is the emotion and connection that the entire Steelers roster had to this game. They understood what it meant to not only the entire Rooney family, but to the organization.
That shone through as they departed Dublin, bound for Pittsburgh on a bye week - and while the season did not end up going to plan in terms of how we all wanted, the image of former Head Coach Mike Tomlin walking off the Croke Park turf with Cam Heyward and Aaron Rodgers embracing the crowd is one that will burn long in the memory.
Frankly, the weekend meant so much to so many - and this Saint Patrick's Day, we can celebrate that connection even more thanks to moments like this.
It is fitting, therefore, that Coach Tomlin's first appearance back at Acrisure Stadium since departing in his role earlier this year was at the annual Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala, which took place last week.
The Ireland Funds was started in 1976 by the late Dan Rooney and the late Tony O'Reilly. Both men had a vision to help the island of Ireland through a monumentally difficult period, focusing on peace, culture, and charity.
This year, the dinner honored not only Tomlin and his wife Kiya, but also actor Michael Keaton.
It was a landmark occasion, as this year is the 50th anniversary of the first gala.
Take a look at photos from the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala honoring Michael Keaton, Academy Award-nominated and Golden Globe, SAG, and Emmy-award winning actor, and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl Champion and internationally recognized fashion designer
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
Michael Keaton, award winning actor and Mike and Kiya Tomlin, Super Bowl champion and internationally recognized fashion designer, were honored during the Ireland Funds Pittsburgh Gala on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
It's fair to say that Steelers President Art Rooney II is proud of its growth over this period.
"It's amazing, and it's great that it's lasted this long," he said.
"I was at the first dinner in 1976 and I'm not sure anybody was really sure it would last 50 years that night. It's a tribute to the hard work that my dad and Tony O'Reilly put into it, getting it off the ground and really making sure that it was sustainable. I think the first 10, 15 years, it really was an effort to spread it around the country, spread it around the world."
"Now to look back on 50 years and see what was accomplished, it's great to see."
Outside of the historic first game in Dublin and last week's gala, the Steelers are continuing to work hard on the island of Ireland. In the new internet age, the team has never felt so close to home - and the Steelers Ireland social channels along with 'The Irish Steelers Podcast' continue to go from strength to strength, with the Steelers at the forefront of fan expansion in Ireland.
Up next for the Steelers in Ireland is a flag football tournament that will visit Belfast, Dublin and Cork, which starts later this month.
There will no doubt be an Irish flair and presence at the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place in Pittsburgh for the first time at the end of April.
One thing is for sure - Irish eyes are smiling for Steelers fans and they will continue to for some time yet.
Happy Saint Patrick's Day to you all - Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Daoibh!
